In this modern era, maids are in charge of most of the household while parents are busy at work and what little time kids have for leisure is spent playing games on the computer, mobile phone or tablet PC.

Gone are the days when outdoor games were the “in thing,” when all the neighbourhood kids got together and played till their mums called them to come home for dinner.

Most of the fault lies with our modern lifestyle, our guarded and gated neighbourhoods and, most of all, limited time to spend with our families, friends and neighbours. We get so absorbed in our daily hectic life that we tend to ignore our loved ones, including the kids.

Puzzles and games which teach kids to problem-solve are like a breath of fresh air. They are not only intriguing; they also develop the kids' thinking ability making them more active, happy and creative. It also helps the child intellectually.

Some puzzles are not just for kids; they can also be played and enjoyed by the whole family thus creating more quality time among each member and strengthening family ties while still having fun together.

Menjit Basram